Liftshare joins International Women’s Day to #BalanceforBetter

March 8th marks International Women’s Day, the annual day which celebrates the achievements of women, be that social, economic, cultural or political, whilst also encouraging and highlighting gender balance. International Women’s Day was established over 100 years ago in 1911, and is now supported by over one million people worldwide.

This year’s IWD encourages you support the campaign by striking the #BalanceforBetter pose.

And to consider what you can do to create balance in business, be that the boardroom, in media coverage, and employee demographic, for example. IWD states that “Gender balance is essential for economies and communities to thrive.”. Having won the Regional Employer of the Year, and with mixed-gender representation in senior management meetings, Liftshare agrees.

This year, we asked the team to tell us about an achievement from an inspiring woman in their life:

“One of the many women in my life that I find truly inspirational is my friend, Jane. Jane’s daughter, Kitty, was born with Cerebral Palsy and needs round the clock care which Jane provides. Disheartened by the lack of support, Jane and a group of parents of disabled children set up an award-winning charity “Building for the Future” in 2007 with the aim of launching a community centre for disabled children and their families in Wokingham and surrounding areas. After 7 years of fundraising, alongside caring for their children, the parents achieved their dream and built “Our House” which was opened in 2014 by the Earl and Countess of Wessex. Five years on and Our House welcomes more than 500 children and young people with disabilities through its doors over the course of a year. In 2017, Building for the Future won the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service. Jane has also won ITV’s fundraiser prize in Pride of Britain Awards. Jane is a true example of turning adversity into something great and I am humbled by her drive, passion and determination to improve the lives of disabled children.” – Candice, Office Manager.

“My Nana. She’s 78 with a moped, walks at least 5 miles a day and still swims off the Norfolk coast come rain or shine in the summer…superwoman!” – James, Business Engagement Executive

“I’m in awe of my best friend Lucy’s dedication to learning, reading and just her general work ethic. She’s so dedicated to doing the best she can, pushed herself to do a masters and is now looking at completing a PhD! Seriously motivating and inspiring lady!” – Sarah, Head of Product

“My dear friend has just been through a life changing operation, she was up and walking the same week and despite being in lots of pain is always there for everyone else with a smile on her face – she’s a wonder woman!” – Julie, Operation Director

And of the women in our office? Head of Product, Sarah, was recently a finalist for the DevelopHer awards; Membership, Campaigns and Communications Manager, Laura, has been cast in a lead role in a local production of Legally Blonde; and Finance Manager, Theresa, has just given birth to Liftshare’s newest mascot, Margot! It goes without saying that we’re proud of all our colleagues at Liftshare, who all strive to be the best they can be, support teamwork and forward thinking.

Is there an inspirational woman in your life? Tweet us their story or get in touch via Facebook. Check out how we celebrated International Women’s Day 2018, here.